The Jewel Voice Broadcast (Gyokuon-hōsō)
Broadcast radio recording on August 15, 1945, reading the Imperial Rescript on the Termination of the War, announcing Japan's surrender to the Allied forces.
Full Transcript
To our good and loyal subjects: After pondering deeply the general trends of the world and the actual conditions obtaining in our empire today, we have decided to effect a settlement of the present situation by resorting to an extraordinary measure.
Moreover, the enemy has begun to employ a new and most cruel bomb, the power of which to do damage is, indeed, incalculable, taking the toll of many innocent lives. Should we continue to fight, it would not only result in an ultimate collapse and obliteration of the Japanese nation, but also it would lead to the total extinction of human civilization.
Beware most strictly of any outbursts of emotion that may create unnecessary complications, or any fraternal contention and strife that may confuse you, lead you astray and cause you to lose the confidence of the world.
We have resolved to pave the way for a grand peace for all the generations to come by enduring the unendurable and suffering what is unsufferable.
Defining Key Excerpts
"We have resolved to pave the way for a grand peace for all the generations to come by enduring the unendurable and suffering what is unsufferable."
"The enemy has begun to employ a new and most cruel bomb."
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